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This week we're being encouraged to support our local traders for Love Your Markets week but in Northamptonshire this morning, shoppers would have been greeted by some particularly young stallholders. The town held its first Teenage Market providing free stalls for young entrepreneurs.

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Birmingham's wholesale market is being relocated in three years. Credit: PA

The Love Your Market Campaign kicks off today, raising awareness of local markets around the UK.

Market stall holder's in the Midlands took five of the 11 awards at this year's Markets of the Year Awards, including Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market.

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has welcomed the support of the markets industry, which has set a target of 500 markets getting involved in this year’s events, in addition to 3,000 new traders.

The future of Birmingham's wholesale market will be decided on March 25, and if plans go ahead, it could be moved north to Witton or east to Washwood Heath.

The Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, says the current location is not economically viable and too big for future needs.

The council cabinet may also decide to keep the market in its current location and oversee a 15 or 30 year refurbishment.

“Years of tradition will be upheld by providing a modern and fit-for-purpose wholesale market but the traders have to work with us to secure its long-term future," said Councillor Ian Ward, Birmingham City Council’s Deputy Leader.

"The current wholesale market has reached the end of its economic life and it is recognised by everyone involved that it is too big for current and future needs."